Scholarship Sponsor Q&A: Prolec GE Waukesha Scholarship

Recognized as one of the largest U.S. manufacturers of power transformers, Prolec GE Waukesha® has invested in research, technology, new product design, engineering expertise, and plant and field service equipment, while remaining focused on improving industry standards and leading innovations to meet the evolving needs of its customers. To support their workforce, the company created the Prolec GE Waukesha Scholarship, administered by Scholarship America. We spoke with Alison Myszewski of Prolec GE Waukesha about the importance of supporting children of employees as they pursue higher education.

Scholarship America: What’s your role at Prolec, and how do you work with the Prolec GE Waukesha Scholarship?

Alison Myszewski: I am the Human Resources Manager for Prolec GE Waukesha at our Waukesha, Wisconsin, facility. In my role, I support our company’s social responsibility initiative, which involves a commitment to practices, events and programs that positively impact our employees.

The Prolec GE Waukesha scholarship provides an opportunity for students of our employees to benefit from financial support on their pathway to future growth.

SA: Why was the scholarship created at Prolec?

AM: The scholarship program was created as a benefit to assist employees’ children who plan to continue their education in college or vocational school programs. An investment in their future reinforces the commitment Prolec GE Waukesha has to the company value: Strive for excellence in everything we do.

SA: How does this scholarship program complement your other educational and talent development initiatives?

AM: Professional growth and development opportunities are key to enhancing employee satisfaction and a contribution to the success of the business. In addition to on-the-job training and professional development facilitated by Prolec GE Waukesha, we provide educational reimbursement for employees who are looking to gain additional skills. The scholarship program complements our skills development initiatives because it extends the commitment beyond the employee to the children of the employee.

SA: Why does Prolec feel it’s so important to invest in scholarships for children of employees?

AM: Prolec GE Waukesha values striving for excellence in everything we do. We focus on investing in the future. This commitment reflects our mission. By investing in scholarships, we are helping support our current group of employees and empowering their families to pursue their goals, while helping reduce the financial burden that additional education may pose. Additionally, through this initiative, Prolec GE Waukesha positions itself as an organization that is forward thinking and committed to personal and professional continuous improvement.

SA: What impact does the Prolec GE Waukesha Scholarship have on your recruitment and retention efforts?

AM: The ability to promote our Prolec GE Waukesha scholarship as part of our recruitment and retention strategy allows us to target top talent by providing financial assistance to their children. It establishes a connection of goodwill between the employee and recipient of the scholarship with the company, fostering loyalty and a sense of value.

SA: What advice would you give to future applicants?

AM: Receiving a scholarship is recognition of your hard work and achievements. It is also something that can give you peace of mind, knowing part of your education is being funded.  Give yourself time to complete the process and be thoughtful in your application.